JVC has taken the wraps off its debut DVD recorder, the DR-M1. Topping its list of attractions is its PAL Progressive capability – and what’s more the 2-2 Pull-down conversion is conducted without converting the original data to interlaced data, thus leading to a cleaner image. Also key to the DR-M1’s appeal is its multi-format support: it will playback DVD-Video, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD-R, CD, Video CD and CD-R/RW, and recording in DVD-RAM, DVD-R or DVD-RW format.

Helping out on the pictures, meanwhile, are Block Noise Reduction Circuit and Hadamard Noise Reduction System for reducing mosquito noise. JVC is also keen to stress that it’s designed the DR-M1 to record images in four different horizontal resolutions - more than 500 lines, 400 lines, 340 lines and 250 lines according to the length of recording time, while conventional players allow only two--more than 500 lines or 250 lines.

The DR-M1 also conducts effective noise reduction prior to MPEG encoding of the input signals - from VHS video tapes, for example - with the Super MPEG Encode Pre-Processor. This first reduces jitters with a Time Base Corrector, and then eliminates frame crossover jitters with Frame Synchronizer. Moreover, noise on moving images is also reduced with the JVC Motion Active Noise Reduction, which precisely detects pixel motion and applies algorithms to eliminate edge smear and image lag.

Added to these advanced recording features is the i.LINK connection, which allows direct digital-digital conversion of DVC input signals for recordings of pictures with less noise and highly accurate details. And a Linear PCM recording capability ensures recording of high-quality sound.

When you load a disc, the DR-M1 shows you thumbnail pictures of the recorded contents. The thumbnail pictures are animated when the cursor is placed over it, making it easy for you to recognise the programme content. This is a JVC-developed technology, and the DR-M1 is the world's first player to come with this feature.

Another draw of the DR-M1, as you might be able to tell from the picture, is its size: it’s the first DVD recorder to feature a slimline design like that sported by many of the latest DVD players. And to keep the good news rolling, we're informed that that the DR-M1 will likely only cost around £450 when it launches towards the beginning of October.